The Big Sandy Mountaineer -

Essential workers took on a whole new meaning during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. In healthcare though, we’ve always known and recognized that CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants) are essential to the daily operations in any medical facility. Especially the week of June 15-21 when we celebrate Nursing Assistant Week.

A CNA assists patients with all the tasks most of us take for granted daily. Things like bathing, dressing, moving from a chair to bed and the like. Because of their close involvement with each patient, they become very attached, but also very aware. They are the eyes and ears for the nurse’s they work with, reporting changes or concerns immediately. There’s a saying that behind every great nurse there is a running CNA. That is certainly true for the staff at BSMC. The team of CNAs on staff right now are one of the strongest we’ve ever had. Their care, compassion, and light-hearted approach is appreciated and welcomed in the facility.

Nursing Assistants were first introduced to health care during World War I, when the American Red Cross founded the “Volunteer Nurses’ Aid Service.” These gals helped care for the soldiers that were wounded during the war. The demand for Aids increased so much that President Reagan officially recognized the profession shortly after. In 1977, the first Nursing Assistants week was declared. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that we will see a 5% growth in the need for CNAs from 2021 to 2031. Always willing to support growth, CNA classes are available at the Big Sandy Medical Center. Contact Jessica at 406-378-3917 if you’re interested in a class. After completing the training, you would join the ranks of the awesome team we have right now.

Words are never enough to honor them for the care they provide, but Ashley, DON shared a few words about each CNA to celebrate CNA week. If you see any one of these great ladies around, tip your hat and know you are amongst one of the best.

Here are some thoughts from Ashley about each CNA:

Deb B: Deb never lets the residents know she might be having a bad day. Her laugh can be heard throughout the facility.

Denise H: If a shift needs covered, Denise is the gal! She is always willing to come in and lend a hand.

Nicole M: If there is a short shift, Nicole is always offering to come in and help out!

Abria S: Abria takes the extra time when a resident is down or having a hard day. She sees the need for a little extra attention.

Jaycee W: Jaycee is always optimistic and full of energy. She keeps our residents and staff entertained with her huge personality.

Kodi B: Kodi is new to the CNA staff, but she is always so sweet and so kind to the residents!

Hannah W: Every day is a good day for Hannah. She is always ready and willing to just go with the flow.

Dusti P: Even on the busy nights, Dusti still finds a way to make the residents smile.

Lynn F: If you ever need a bath, you want it from Lynn. She will have you looking fresh from head to toe! She’s the best bath-giver around!

Kasondra (traveler): Kass always has a smile and a “good morning” for the oncoming shift.

Caitlyn (traveler): Caitlyn always takes challenges and changes head on!

Lisa (traveler): Lisa is always ready to help out where ever she can. She always gets the job done with a smile.

Abbi (traveler): Abbi is always willing to offer insight and a fresh perspective.

Thank you girls, for all that you do. You’re a great team of staff and you bring so much heart to BSMC, we appreciate you!